Anti-extremism legislation will help students

THE UNION of Jewish Students has welcomed new legislation to tackle extremism on campus.

Universities must have risk assessment procedures for speakers and provide a counter narrative at events where those with extreme views are speaking, according to the legislation that came into effect this week.

It is part of the government’s Prevent strategyfortacklingextremism.According to its Extremism Analysis Unit, at least 70 events featuring hate speakers occurred on campuses last year.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “All public institutions have a role to play in rooting out and challenging extremism. It is not about oppressing free speech or stifling academic freedom, it is about making sure that radical views and ideas are not given the oxygen they need to flourish.”

In a statement, UJS said: “No one who has a proven history of antisemitic rhetoric should be allowed to speak on campus in closed events where their views can go unchallenged. UJS believes that the basic right of freedom of speech should always be protected, but that does not mean toxic speakers should be given an open platform to spout their hate at universities.”

The government strategy has been criticised by the National Union of Students as a form of state surveillance.

UJS added: “We understand the concernsof someinthestudentmovement but also need to ensure that there are rules in place where hate speakers do not have free rein at our institutions.”

Joseph Stoll, campus director at Israel advocacy group StandWithUs, said: “It would be nice if this is also effective in screening antisemitism at anti-Israel events.”

University staff will also have to be trained to respond to signs of radicalisation in students. The Higher Education Funding Council for England will monitor universities’ implementation of the legislation. Failure to comply could ultimately result in a court order.